On October 10, the German Bundestag adopted a resolution titled “A European Future for Georgia,” which underscores concerns regarding the current Georgian government’s anti-democratic actions and its implications for the country’s European integration. The resolution, initiated by the coalition factions SPD, Alliance 90/The Greens, and FDP, calls for decisive action from the German Federal Government in response to these developments.
Concerns Over Democratic Backsliding
The resolution articulates serious apprehensions about the authoritarian trajectory of the Georgian government, led by the Georgian Dream (GD) party. It asserts that the government’s actions are jeopardizing Georgia’s prospects for EU membership. The Bundestag urges the German government to advocate for a halt in Georgia’s EU accession process until the controversial Foreign Agents Law is repealed.
- Key Points from the Resolution:
- Emphasis on the need for democratic reforms in Georgia.
- Call for the withdrawal of legislation that restricts LGBT+ rights.
- Concerns about the influence of Bidzina Ivanishvili, the chairman of Georgian Dream, prioritizing personal power over democratic stability.
The resolution also highlights the detrimental impact of proposed anti-LGBT legislation and constitutional amendments, framing them as attacks on human rights and civil society. The Bundestag’s stance reflects a broader commitment to uphold democratic values and human rights in the context of EU integration.
Advocacy for Fair Elections and Human Rights
In addition to addressing legislative concerns, the Bundestag resolution calls for the German government to support free and fair parliamentary elections in Georgia. It emphasizes the importance of international observation missions from organizations such as the OSCE/ODIHR and PACE to ensure electoral integrity.
- Recommendations for the German Government:
- Advocate for free and fair elections as a condition for future relations with Georgia.
- Monitor the situation in Georgia for potential violations that could warrant targeted sanctions.
- Urge the Georgian leadership to cease the unlawful persecution of peaceful demonstrators.
The resolution also stresses the need for continued visa-free travel for Georgian citizens, asserting that suspending this privilege would adversely affect the entire population, including pro-European factions.
Addressing External Threats and Influence
The Bundestag resolution does not shy away from addressing external threats to Georgia’s sovereignty. It calls on the German government to demand that Russia respect Georgia’s territorial integrity and to condemn any attempts by Russian forces to destabilize the region.
This multifaceted approach underscores the urgency of supporting Georgia’s European aspirations while holding its government accountable for democratic backsliding. The resolution serves as a clarion call for both domestic reform and international solidarity in the face of external pressures.
